EU Overhauls Air Passenger Compensation Rules: Longer Delays, Lower Payouts

The European Union recently updated its air passenger compensation regulations. These changes significantly alter the compensation process for flight delays. Previously, passengers on short-haul flights received €250 for delays of three hours or more, and those on long-haul flights received up to €600. Under the new rules, passengers will need to experience longer delays to qualify for compensation. For short-haul flights, the delay threshold is now four hours, with compensation reduced to €300. Long-haul flight compensation drops to €500, but only after a six-hour delay. Consumer groups have voiced concerns that these revisions weaken passenger rights, arguing that the increased delay thresholds are unfair. However, airlines generally support the changes. Irish Minister of State Seán Canney welcomed the proposals, suggesting they strike a better balance between consumer rights and airline liability. The proposals now await approval from the European Parliament.